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What is capital loss?
Capital loss refers to a financial loss incurred when the value of an investment or asset decreases compared to its original purchase price or cost basis. This loss occurs when an investor sells or disposes of an asset for an amount lower than what they initially paid for it. Capital losses are a common occurrence in the world of investing, and they can have important implications for an individual's financial situation and tax liability. Here are some key points to understand about capital losses:

1. Causes of Capital Losses: Capital losses can result from a variety of factors, including market fluctuations, economic conditions, changes in supply and demand, company-specific issues, or poor investment decisions. For example, if you purchase shares of a stock at $50 per share and later sell them for $40 per share, you incur a capital loss of $10 per share.

2. Offsetting Gains: One way to mitigate the impact of capital losses is by offsetting them against capital gains. When an investor sells an asset for a profit, it's known as a capital gain. Capital losses can be used to reduce the taxable amount of capital gains. This practice is commonly referred to as tax-loss harvesting.

3. Net Capital Loss: If an investor's capital losses exceed their capital gains in a given tax year, they are left with a net capital loss. In many tax systems, this net loss can be used to offset other types of income, such as ordinary income from a job, to reduce the overall tax liability for the year.

4. Carryforward and Carryback: Depending on the tax laws in a particular jurisdiction, capital losses can sometimes be carried forward to offset future capital gains in subsequent tax years. Some jurisdictions also allow for the carryback of capital losses to offset gains in previous years, which can result in a refund of previously paid taxes.

5. Investment Strategy: Capital losses are an inherent part of investing, and they should be considered when forming an investment strategy. Investors often diversify their portfolios to spread risk and minimize potential losses. Additionally, understanding the tax implications of capital losses can help investors make more informed decisions.

6. Tax Deductions: In many countries, capital losses are tax-deductible, which means that they can reduce an individual's taxable income. The rules for deducting capital losses vary by jurisdiction, so it's essential to consult with a tax professional or reference the specific tax laws applicable to your situation.

A capital loss occurs when the value of an investment or asset decreases, resulting in a financial loss when it is sold or disposed of at a lower price than its original purchase price. Capital losses can be used to offset capital gains and may also have tax implications, depending on the tax laws in your area. Properly managing and understanding capital losses is essential for investors seeking to optimize their financial portfolios and tax strategies.

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